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Police Radio Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... who are operating vehicles in violation of city and state laws; (13) issues citations and makes ... Instructions; radio dispatch; communication with other officers. (b) Written: Instructions; memos ...

Ensure monitoring and timely response to all police radio traffic as well as answering emergency and non-emergency calls for service from the public. Serve as the Department TLETS TCIC/NCIC operator.

Police Officer (Entry Level)

Selma, CA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

... who are operating vehicles in violation of city and state laws; (13) issues citations and makes ... Instructions; radio dispatch; communication with other officers. (b) Written: Instructions; memos ...

Police Officer (Lateral)

Selma, CA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

... who are operating vehicles in violation of city and state laws; (13) issues citations and makes ... Instructions; radio dispatch; communication with other officers. (b) Written: Instructions; memos ...

... who are operating vehicles in violation of city and state laws; (13) issues citations and makes ... Instructions; radio dispatch; communication with other officers. (b) Written: Instructions; memos ...

Police Officer (Lateral)

Selma, CA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

... who are operating vehicles in violation of city and state laws; (13) issues citations and makes ... Instructions; radio dispatch; communication with other officers. (b) Written: Instructions; memos ...

Operate and monitor police radio base stations, telephone systems, computer aided dispatch software ... by operating a Public Safety Communications Center to ensure the safety of officers, facilities ...

... Police radio and police terminology including radio 10 Codes. • Must be proficient in the ... operating system, mobile networking computers with windows applications or programs and word ...

Communications Operator I

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$75K - $91K/yr

Visually monitors video display terminals and actively listens to police radio frequencies to ... Some experience operating radio, computer, or other communication equipment is highly desirable.

Police Officer

Seguin, TX · On-site

$69K/yr

Responds to calls for police assistance by operating a police vehicle in routine and emergency situations while being able to talk and operate the police radio and emergency equipment; Directs ...

Showing results 21-40

Police Radio Operator information

See salary details

$33.5K

$55.1K

$72K

How much do police radio operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for police radio operator in the United States is $55,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $62,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police radio operator?

Police Radio Operators are specialized professionals who manage radio communications for law enforcement agencies. They are responsible for receiving, transmitting, and relaying information between police officers, emergency responders, and dispatch centers. Their duties often include handling emergency calls, monitoring police activities, and ensuring that critical information is communicated quickly and accurately. This role is vital for coordinating responses and maintaining public safety during incidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police radio operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Radio Operator, you need strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multi-task, typically supported by a high school diploma and relevant on-the-job training. Familiarity with radio dispatch systems, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software, and emergency communication protocols is essential. Remaining calm under pressure, quick decision-making, and teamwork are standout soft skills for this position. These abilities ensure accurate information relay, effective coordination of law enforcement resources, and public safety during critical incidents.

What are some common challenges police radio operators face during their shifts?

Police Radio Operators often work in high-pressure environments where quick thinking and clear communication are essential. A common challenge is managing multiple incoming calls and dispatch requests simultaneously, especially during emergencies or peak hours. Operators must prioritize calls efficiently while remaining calm and focused to ensure accurate information is relayed to officers in the field. Working as part of a team, they frequently coordinate with other emergency services, requiring strong collaboration skills and adaptability.

What is the difference between Police Radio Operator vs Police Dispatcher?

AspectPolice Radio OperatorPolice Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, communication skillsHigh school diploma, communication skills, often certifications
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, radio roomsDispatch centers, emergency call rooms
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agenciesLaw enforcement agencies, emergency services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Police Radio Operators and Police Dispatchers both work within law enforcement agencies, handling communication and coordination. While Police Radio Operators primarily monitor radio channels and relay information, Police Dispatchers actively coordinate responses to emergencies. Both roles require strong communication skills and are essential for effective law enforcement operations.

How to become a police radio operator in NY?

To become a police radio operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a civil service exam, and undergo background checks and training. Strong communication skills, knowledge of radio equipment, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are essential. Certification in emergency communication or related fields can be beneficial.

How to become a police radio operator?

To become a police radio operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete specialized training in radio communication and law enforcement procedures. Some agencies may require certification in emergency communication or dispatching, and strong communication skills are essential for the role.

Is it hard to become a police radio operator?

Becoming a police radio operator typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, passing a background check, and undergoing specialized training in radio communication and dispatch procedures. The job demands strong communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and often involves working in shifts, including nights and weekends.

What states have the most Police Radio Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Police Radio Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Police Radio Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Police Radio Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Police Radio Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,123 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Police Officer (Lateral)

Thank you for your interest in our Police Officer (Lateral) position. The City of Selma is a vibrant and steadily growing community with a population of nearly 25,000 and is situated in the heart of California's Central Valley. The City provides a full-range of services to our citizens. To be considered for this outstanding career opportunity applicants must submit an application with detailed information in each section of the application: Education, Work Experience, Certificates and Licenses, and Skills. Resumes may be attached but will not be accepted in lieu of a complete, detailed application. This is a "continuous recruitment" which means, we will accept applications on a continuous basis. When applicants pass the interview phase, their name will be placed on our Continuous Police Officer (Lateral) eligibility list. As candidates are added to the list, the rank order of candidates on the list, may change. Applicants may apply and interview only one time during a six-month period. FAILURE TO ATTACH REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION TO YOUR APPLICATION WILL RESULT IN AN AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFICATION.

A. PURPOSE: Under general supervision, protects life and property; performs law enforcement and crime prevention duties; controls traffic flow and enforces state and local traffic regulations; and performs related duties as required.

B. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: This is the entry level class in the Police series. Position allocated to the class of Police Officer primarily are assigned patrol, traffic, and police-community relations duties.

C. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (1) Protects the life and property of the general public; (2) patrols assigned areas of the city; (3) answers calls for the protection of life and private property and the enforcement of city, county and state laws; (4) conducts preliminary investigations of disturbances, prowlers, burglaries, thefts, holdups, vehicle accidents, deaths and suicides; (5) issues parking citations; (6) checks doors and windows of business firms at night; (7) investigates suspicious persons and activities; (8) gives information and directions to the public; (9) investigates complaints regarding juvenile and adult actions to determine if a crime has been committed; (10) prepares and submits crime reports; (11) directs traffic, including vehicle flow at fires, parades, funerals and other emergencies or congested situations; (12) stops drivers who are operating vehicles in violation of city and state laws; (13) issues citations and makes arrests as required; (14) prepares reports of arrests made, investigations conducted and illegal incidents observed; (15) appears in court as a prosecution witness and to assist in the presentation of the case; (16) apprehends and arrests suspects; (17) transports suspects to County Jail; (18) searches records to establish identification and prior criminal activity of suspects; (19) reviews case records and reports; (20) makes concentrated patrol of areas with a high crime incidence; (21) interviews and interrogates persons concerned in criminal cases; and (22) performs a variety of animal control and related duties.

D. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. General and Specialized Job Knowledge and Abilities: (a) General Knowledge of: English grammar, spelling and syntax; basic math. (b) Specialized Knowledge of: City, state and federal laws and regulations; law enforcement procedures; law enforcement report writing; use of firearms; use of emergency equipment; high speed driving; broadcast procedures of a police radio system. (c) Ability to: Observe and remember names, faces, numbers, incidents and places accurately while under stress and in emergency situations; use and care for firearms in a safe manner; think and act quickly in emergencies, judging situations and people accurately; learn, understand, interpret and apply laws and regulations; understand and carry out oral and written instructions; prepare concise and comprehensive written reports; learn and use a standard broadcasting police radio system in accordance with departmental procedures and FCC laws and regulations; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; meet standards of physical stature, endurance and agility as established by the City of Selma.

2. Resources, Including Money, Equipment, Materials and Records: Police records; reports; confidential records; patrol vehicle; police radio; firearms; other police equipment used in the apprehension and control of criminals.

3. Solving Problems: Determining when to make an arrest or issue a warning; resolution of family disputes; determining when to step into child custody problems; traffic and criminal activity investigations; how to work with and control gang problems; how to maintain control while maintaining the respect for the uniform; how to apprehend and subdue individuals without undue force.

4. Performance of Others: Other team members; rookies and P.O.S.T. interns.

5. Relations with: (a) Internal Relations with: Other officers; Police Sergeant; Police Captain; Chief of Police; other City employees; members of the City Council. (b) External Relations with: General public; other police agencies; child and adult protective services; fire departments; hospitals; parole officers; attorneys; court personnel.

6. Communications: (a) Oral: Instructions; radio dispatch; communication with other officers. (b) Written: Instructions; memos; reports; criminal records. (c) Visual: Traffic situations; individual driver's performance; crime scenes; traffic accidents; injuries; weapons discharge; hand signals of fellow officers. (d) Auditory: Traffic noises; movements of suspects in hiding; radio dispatch; communication between partner and fellow officers; sirens and horns.

7. Safety: (a) Hazardous conditions: Driving at high speeds, in rain and at night; answering police calls; apprehending suspects; apprehending parolees; entering burning buildings; accident scenes; traffic control; working with injured who may be HIV positive; being fired upon. (b) Frequency: Many times each shift. (c) Consequence: From minor injury and abrasions up to and including death.

8. Tolerance of Job Conditions: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Heat and cold; dampness; loud noises; violence; smells; toxic chemicals; vicious dogs; long hours.

9. Physical Aptitude: (a) High degree of hand/eye coordination and physical strength (b) Minor to heavy lifting and strength required to subdue criminals, break into buildings, and restrain violent physical actions.

10. Application of Mental and Physical Effort: Requires concentration for extended periods of time and the ability to analyze and interpret data from a wide variety of sources; make correct decisions under stress; utilization of both strength and agility in the apprehension and subduing of individuals without undue force.

E. PREREQUISITES: 1. Education and Experience: Any combination equivalent to graduation from high school and completion of P.O.S.T. training for police officers. 2. Licenses, Registrations, Accreditation, etc.: Possession of a valid Class C California Motor Vehicle Operators License; certificate of completion of the P.O.S.T. Basic Academy; standard CPR and First Aid Certificates issued by the American Red Cross.